At times, children who have been abused or neglected must be removed from their homes for their safety. Foster Care (now called Permanency Planning) is a temporary removal while parents can work on getting back together (called reunification). If a family is unable to get back together, other long-term options may include adoption.
What is Foster Care (Permanency Planning)?
Foster care, now called Permanency Planning, is temporary care for children, who were found to be abused or neglected and are planned to return home when it is safe to do so.
In state fiscal year 2019 (July 1, 2018 – June 30, 2019), a total of 770 children received temporary foster care services. Of the children served, 193 were new and 269 left foster care by the end of the year. The length of stay in foster care varies from a few days to years. Youth who enter foster care at an older age, such as in their teenage years, tend to stay in foster care longer than infants and young children.
Extended Foster Care
Youth who turn 18 while in foster care have the option of continuing with foster care services and benefits until their 21st birthday. These youth are referred to as young adults. A total of 112 Wake County young adults were served in state fiscal year 2019.
Benefits of extended foster care include:
- Ongoing case management support
- Help with finding housing
- Financial support for food, housing, clothing and personal items
- Health insurance (Medicaid)
- Grants and scholarships to help pay for a college or university
Becoming a Foster Care Parent
Becoming a foster parent will change your life and the life of a child in a positive way. Fostering brings safety, security and nurturing to children and families in need.
Shared Parenting
With the support and needed services, many families can safely care for their children. Foster parents play a vital role in helping and nurturing a child in need and supporting their families.